Best Platform to Build a Business Website (2025) - Our Review
- Vladyslav Bendasyuk
- Apr 7
- 28 min read
In 2025, there are more ways than ever to build a website for small businesses and the good news is, there are no truly "bad" options.
The challenge isn’t finding a website builder; it’s finding the best platform to build a business website that aligns with your specific needs.
There are more high-quality website builders available than ever before, making it easier to build a website for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and growing brands.
Over the past few years, website-building technology has evolved dramatically. Traditional drag-and-drop editors now compete with no-code platforms, AI-powered website builders, and responsive design tools that automate much of the process.
This means you no longer need to be a developer to create a stunning, functional website—but it also means the choices can feel overwhelming.
Should you go with an all-in-one solution like Wix or Squarespace? Or does your business require the flexibility of Webflow or Shopify for e-commerce?
This guide will help you cut through the noise. We’ve tested and reviewed the leading platforms to determine the best platform to build a business website in 2025. We’ll highlight our top picks for different business types, explaining why each one stands out in its category.
Whether you’re a solopreneur launching a side hustle or an established company looking to revamp your online presence, we’ll help you make an informed decision.
Want to learn more? Check out our complete guide on how to build a website for your business for step-by-step instructions.
Just getting started? Download our free e-book: Build Your Business’s Online Presence in 90 Days to accelerate your growth with expert strategies from Canada's best digital marketing professionals.
Table of Content
4 Types of Web Builders
Choosing the best platform to build a business website starts with understanding the different categories of website builders available today.
The market has evolved far beyond simple drag-and-drop editors, now offering specialized solutions for every type of user - from complete beginners to professional developers.
At Avansta, we've identified four fundamental types of website builders that cater to distinct needs and skill levels.
The first category consists of traditional drag-and-drop builders, which remain popular for their simplicity and quick setup. These platforms allow anyone to create a website without coding knowledge by simply moving elements around a page.
Understanding which of these four categories aligns with your business needs, technical skills, and growth plans is crucial for making an informed decision.
In the following sections, we'll dive deeper into each type, examining their strengths, ideal use cases, and specific platform recommendations to help you find the perfect solution for your business website needs.
Drag & Drop Builders: The Simplest Way to Build Your Business Website
For entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for the easiest website building platforms, drag-and-drop builders remain the most accessible solution.
These easy professional website builder options have revolutionized web design, allowing anyone—regardless of technical skill—to create a functional and visually appealing online presence.
At their core, drag-and-drop builders eliminate the need for coding by providing intuitive interfaces where you can simply click, drag, and position elements on your page.
Platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and WordPress with Elementor have made it possible for small businesses to launch websites quickly and affordably.
This makes them the go-to website builder for small business owners who need a cost-effective solution without sacrificing professionalism.
However, while these builders simplify the process, they don’t eliminate the need for strategy.
Many assume that building a website is as simple as dragging a few boxes onto a page, but in reality, a successful site requires thoughtful design, strong branding, and user-friendly navigation.
A poorly structured website—even if built on an easy professional website builder—can hurt credibility and conversions.
One common limitation of traditional drag-and-drop builders is their lack of advanced development features.
While they excel at simplicity, they may restrict deeper customization for those who want granular control over functionality. That said, many platforms now allow HTML/CSS modifications, making them more versatile than before.
Who Should Use a Drag & Drop Builder?
These builders are perfect for:
Startups and solopreneurs who need a fast, budget-friendly website.
First-time website owners who want to learn how to build a website for a small business without coding.
If you're looking for the best website builder for small businesses that balances ease of use with professional results, drag-and-drop platforms are an excellent starting point.
They remove technical barriers, allowing you to focus on growing your business rather than wrestling with web development.
Responsive Builders: The Future of Professional Business Websites
For businesses serious about their online presence, responsive builders represent the gold standard in modern web design.
Unlike traditional drag-and-drop platforms that simply scale content to fit different screens, responsive builders like Webflow, WIX Studio, Framer, and Elementor allow true adaptability—ensuring your website looks and functions flawlessly on every device, from smartphones to tablets to desktop monitors.
The problem with older website builders is their limited approach to responsiveness. Platforms like classic WIX or Squarespace relied on separate mobile editors, which often resulted in inconsistent experiences across different screen sizes—especially tablets or unusual resolutions.
Modern responsive builders solve this by giving you precise control over how every element adjusts at any screen dimension. This means pixel-perfect design that maintains your brand’s professionalism no matter how visitors access your site.
There’s no denying that responsive builders require more skill than basic drag-and-drop tools.
To use them effectively, you’ll need to understand:
Breakpoints: How your design adapts at specific screen widths
Fluid layouts: Ensuring elements resize proportionally
Flexbox and grid systems: For advanced structural control
This learning curve means beginners may feel overwhelmed at first—even experienced designers need time to adjust when switching platforms.
However, the payoff is immense: complete creative freedom and a website that truly represents your brand at every touchpoint.
Who Should Use a Responsive Builder?
These platforms are ideal for:
Small-to-medium businesses ready to elevate their digital presence
Agencies and designers building client sites that demand premium quality
Local businesses (restaurants, salons, consultants) that require a modern and professional online presence.
If you’re looking for the best website to create a business website that grows with your brand, responsive builders offer unparalleled flexibility.
For entrepreneurs researching good websites to start a business, responsive builders may seem intimidating—but they’re the smart choice for businesses planning to scale.
Developer-Friendly Builders: Power and Customization for Complex Needs
When it comes to building a website, most small and medium businesses can thrive using standard website builders with their built-in features and third-party integrations.
However, for enterprises, specialized industries, or businesses requiring truly unique functionality, developer-friendly builders offer unparalleled control and customization.
These platforms represent the best place to set up a website when your needs go beyond what conventional builders can offer.
Unlike drag-and-drop or responsive builders designed for general use, developer-centric platforms like WordPress (with custom themes), Drupal, and custom frameworks cater specifically to web professionals.
They provide complete access to the codebase, allowing for:
Creation of completely custom features and functionalities
Development of industry-specific solutions (like medical portals or financial dashboards)
Enterprise-grade security configurations
Advanced database structures and API integrations
The trade-off for this power is complexity. Where standard website builders prioritize user-friendliness, these platforms assume working knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and often backend languages like PHP.
Even WordPress, which powers over 40% of all websites on the internet, is frequently used by small businesses.
This steep learning curve means these platforms typically serve two distinct audiences:
Web development agencies building custom solutions for clients
In-house tech teams at larger organizations
Tech-savvy entrepreneurs willing to invest time in learning the platform
Who Should Use a Developer-Friendly Builder?
For businesses considering whether a developer-friendly builder is right for them, the key question is: Do we need capabilities that simply don't exist in standard website builders?
If your answer involves:
Unique user workflows
Complex data handling
Specialized integrations
Custom functionality requirements
Scalability for high traffic
Then exploring these advanced platforms may be worthwhile. However, for most businesses looking for the best place to set up a website, the added complexity and maintenance requirements of developer-friendly builders often outweigh their benefits.
E-Commerce Websites: A Specialized Approach to Selling Online
When creating your own website to sell things, it's important to understand that e-commerce platforms serve a fundamentally different purpose than standard websites.
While all e-commerce sites are websites, not all websites are equipped to handle online transactions - this distinction shapes everything from platform selection to design considerations.
True e-commerce platforms specialize in facilitating secure online transactions through features like:
Product inventory management with variants (sizes, colours)
Secure checkout processes with multiple payment gateways
Tax and shipping calculation systems
Customer account portals for order tracking
Legal compliance pages (refund policies, shipping policies)
These specialized requirements explain why dedicated platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Square Online exist separately from general website builders.
When you set up website to sell items, you're not just presenting information - you're building a digital storefront with complex backend operations.
Modern e-commerce solutions power various transactional models:
Digital storefronts (physical/digital products)
Subscription services (monthly boxes, SaaS)
Booking systems (appointments, events)
Donation platforms (nonprofits, crowdfunding)
Hybrid content-commerce sites (blogs with shops)
Who Needs an E-Commerce Solution?
These platforms are essential for:
Retail businesses moving online
Service providers taking bookings/deposits
Content creators monetizing through memberships
Nonprofits accepting donations
Any business adding a secondary revenue stream
Even if selling isn't your primary focus, incorporating e-commerce functionality can transform your website from a brochure to a revenue generator.
Modern website builders make it surprisingly easy to add "sell" buttons, donation forms, or appointment calendars to existing sites.
Key Features to Look for in a Website Builder
When searching for the best platform to build a business website, it's important to evaluate several fundamental features that will determine your website's functionality, growth potential, and overall success.
The ideal website builder varies depending on whether you're a complete beginner, a web designer, or a developer - each requiring different levels of customization and technical capability.
As you assess these features, prioritize which elements align with your specific business needs, as no two websites have identical requirements.
For a comprehensive breakdown of essential website features, we recommend reviewing our complete guide on must-have elements for growing your online presence.
Ease of Use
Ease of use stands as one of the most critical considerations when selecting the best website builder for a small business.
The spectrum ranges from simple drag-and-drop interfaces perfect for beginners to code-based customization options favoured by professionals. Drag-and-drop builders allow anyone to create a website without technical knowledge by visually placing elements on the page, while code-based options provide complete creative control through HTML, CSS, and JavaScript access.
Most business owners benefit from platforms that offer both approaches - an intuitive visual editor for daily management with the option for deeper customization when needed.
Mobile Responsiveness
Mobile responsiveness has evolved from a nice-to-have feature to an absolute necessity in today's mobile-first world.
The best all in one website builder will offer true responsive design capabilities, not just basic mobile scaling. This means your website should automatically adapt its layout, images, and functionality to provide an optimal viewing experience across all devices - from smartphones and tablets to desktop computers.
Look for platforms that provide device-specific preview modes and allow customization of breakpoints to ensure your content displays perfectly at every screen size.
SEO and Marketing Tools
For businesses focused on online visibility, SEO and marketing tools built into the platform can make a substantial difference in your website's performance.
The secure website builder you choose should include essential SEO features like on-page SEO, technical SEO, customizable meta tags, clean URL structures, image optimization tools, and integration with Google Analytics.
Additional marketing capabilities such as email campaign tools, pop-up builders, and social media integrations can further enhance your digital marketing efforts without requiring third-party solutions.
E-commerce Capabilities
E-commerce capabilities have become increasingly important, even for businesses that don't primarily sell online. The best way to build a website from scratch with future growth in mind includes considering e-commerce functionality.
Look for features like product management systems, secure payment gateways, inventory tracking, and shipping calculators.
Some platforms specialize in e-commerce with built-in selling tools, while others require plugins or integrations to add shopping functionality.
Customization and Integration Options
Customization and integration options often determine how well your website can adapt to your unique business requirements.
The ability to add functionality through apps, plugins, or custom code is invaluable. Some businesses may need booking systems, membership areas, or specialized forms that require integration with third-party services.
Developers will particularly value platforms with API access and the ability to implement custom solutions.
Pricing and Scalability
Pricing and scalability considerations go beyond just the initial cost.
While some platforms offer attractive introductory rates, they may become significantly more expensive as you add features or experience growth.
Examine not just the base price but additional costs for premium templates, plugins, transaction fees (for e-commerce), and hosting upgrades.
The ideal platform should grow with your business, offering higher-tier plans with enhanced features.
Customer Support
Finally, customer support quality can make or break your website-building experience.
Even the most user-friendly platforms may present challenges, especially when dealing with technical issues or unexpected errors.
Evaluate the support options available - live chat, email, phone support, knowledge bases, and community forums. Response times and support availability may be important depending on your location and business needs.
By carefully evaluating these key features, you'll be better positioned to select the website builder that best matches your business requirements and growth ambitions.
Remember that the best platform to build a business website is one that not only meets your current needs but can adapt as your business evolves.
Templates
The availability and quality of templates significantly impact how quickly you can launch your website. A robust selection of professionally designed templates serves as an excellent starting point, especially when they're organized by industry or purpose.
However, equally important is the flexibility to customize these templates - the ability to modify layouts, colour schemes, typography, and other design elements to match your brand identity.
Some platforms offer hundreds of templates but restrict customization, while others provide fewer options but greater creative freedom.
Best Drag & Drop Builder: Squarespace
After extensive testing and comparison, we've determined Squarespace to be the best website building for small business owners who prioritize elegant design and simplicity in their drag-and-drop website builder.
This wasn't an easy decision - Wix came as an extremely close second, and in some specific cases might actually be the better choice.
Wix excels when you need more all-around features and robust digital marketing tools built directly into the platform. While Wix offers more features and flexibility, Squarespace wins for its elegant simplicity, making it the best DIY website builder for small business owners who want professional results without complexity.
Squarespace wins overall for its refined approach that embodies the "less is more" philosophy perfectly.
What makes Squarespace the best DIY website builder for small business is its exceptional balance between power and simplicity. The platform has been meticulously designed with beginners in mind, offering an inviting interface that makes website creation approachable for non-technical users.
With Squarespace, even complete beginners can craft a modern, professional-looking website in just a few hours. The no-code drag-and-drop editor maintains mobile-friendliness and responsiveness when used with best practices, eliminating the technical hurdles that often frustrate first-time website creators.
Squarespace Features
Core Website Building Features
As the best website to make a website for simple yet elegant online presences, Squarespace provides all the essential tools:
Beautiful, industry-specific templates that automatically maintain responsiveness
Built-in blogging platform with robust content management
Custom form builder for lead generation and customer inquiries
Portfolio displays perfect for creatives and service providers
Video library hosting capabilities
Online course creation tools (great for educators and coaches)
Member area functionality for gated content
A significant advantage is Squarespace's flexibility:
HTML/CSS/JavaScript injection for custom code
Third-party embed capabilities
E-Commerce Features
While not its strongest suit, Squarespace does offer competent e-commerce features:
Physical and digital product sales
Subscription management for recurring revenue
Downloadable content delivery
Membership site functionality
Invoicing tools
Donation collection features
However, we must emphasize that while Squarespace can handle light e-commerce needs, businesses primarily focused on selling online should consider dedicated e-commerce platforms.
Squarespace works best for supplemental sales rather than complex online stores.
Domain and Hosting Services
Squarespace simplifies the technical aspects by offering:
Domain registration directly through their platform
Reliable hosting included with all plans
SSL security standard on all websites
CDN for faster global loading speeds
Marketing and SEO Tools
The platform includes basic but effective marketing features:
Email campaign creation
SEO tools for basic optimization
Marketing analytics dashboard
Social media integration
While these tools are serviceable, this is one area where Wix actually outperforms Squarespace. For serious email marketing campaigns, we still recommend dedicated platforms like MailChimp.
Squarespace's Limitations
While Squarespace is a great best website to make a website, it does have some drawbacks:
Limited advanced design options and functionality
E-commerce features can feel incomplete for serious sellers
Not ideal for businesses looking for highly scalable or feature-rich websites
Templates, while beautiful, can feel restrictive compared to other builders
Squarespace is best suited for individuals or businesses looking to establish an online presence with a best website for a small business—especially for portfolios, blogs, and simple websites. However, if you need advanced features, consider alternative options.
Pricing
Squarespace is competitively priced, but it’s not the most affordable option:
Personal Plan: $21 CAD/month ($252 per year)
Includes a free domain and essential features for a standard website.
Business Plan: $32 CAD/month ($384 per year)
Necessary for selling online but includes a 3% transaction fee on sales.
Commerce Plan: $36 CAD/month ($432 per year)
No transaction fees, ideal for businesses planning to sell online.
Note that to get these monthly rates, you’ll need to pay annually—standard practice for most website builders for small business.
Final Thoughts
Squarespace is a fantastic simple website designer for businesses looking for an intuitive, easy-to-use platform.
It’s perfect for small businesses that want a sleek, professional website without the need for advanced features.
However, if you need a highly customizable, feature-rich website, exploring other options may be a better fit.
2nd Place Winner - Wix
In our evaluation of the best build-your-own website for small business solutions, Wix emerged as an extremely close second to Squarespace - so close that some business owners might reasonably prefer it as their top choice.
While Squarespace won for its elegant simplicity, WIX distinguishes itself as the more powerful and flexible platform, packed with features that cater to growing businesses with diverse needs.
Wix Features
What makes Wix stand out as potentially the best easy website builder for small business is its remarkably comprehensive toolkit that goes far beyond basic website building.
Essentially, everything Squarespace offers, Wix provides an alternative for—plus many more features, either built-in or available through third-party apps.
The primary difference between Wix and Squarespace is design freedom. With Wix, you can literally drag and drop elements anywhere on your website.
While this allows for unlimited customization, it also means you need to be mindful of responsive web design best practices to ensure a smooth user experience.
For those who value creative control, Wix is arguably the best build your own website for small business platform available.
Wix Business Solutions
Built-in CRM system for customer relationship management
Automation features for streamlining workflows
Robust content management system (CMS)
Advanced form builders with conditional logic
Sophisticated analytics and reporting tools
Enhanced Design Capabilities
True drag-and-drop freedom (place elements anywhere)
More animation and interactive element options
Greater control over responsive behaviour
Extensive design effect library
Expanded Functionality
WIX App Market with hundreds of integrations
More e-commerce features and customization
Better membership site capabilities
Advanced booking and scheduling tools
Key Differences from Squarespace
The fundamental distinction between these two platforms comes down to philosophy and approach.
While Squarespace offers curated simplicity, Wix provides what might be considered the best domain and website builder for small business owners who want maximum flexibility.
Design Freedom vs. Guided Structure
Wix's completely free-form editor allows elements to be placed anywhere on the page, offering unparalleled layout control. This contrasts with Squarespace's more structured, section-based approach.
While this freedom enables more creative designs, it also requires more attention to responsive behaviour.
Comprehensive Business Features
Beyond just website building, Wix has evolved into a complete website creator for small business with tools covering:
Email marketing
Social media management
Online scheduling
Customer management
Video creation
Scalability Potential
Wix's extensive app ecosystem and developer tools make it better suited for businesses anticipating growth or needing to add complex functionality over time. With that said, the best platform for fast scalability is WordPress.
Wix's Limitations
While Wix positions itself as the best website to build a website for non-technical users, its wealth of features does create some complexity.
The sheer number of features and flexibility can feel overwhelming, especially for users who just need a simple website. If you’re looking for a quick, easy setup, Wix may not be the best easy website builder for small businesses compared to Squarespace.
Potential Overwhelm Factors
Numerous settings and options can confuse beginners
True design freedom requires more decision-making
Feature abundance means more learning required
Multiple upgrade paths for different functionalities
The platform's complete design flexibility means users must consciously implement responsive design principles rather than relying on automatic optimization. This makes Wix simultaneously more powerful and more demanding than Squarespace.
Pricing
Wix offers competitive pricing as the best website builder for small business in Canada, with a robust free plan and several paid tiers:
Wix provides flexible pricing, starting at $16 CAD per month, with eCommerce features available for $27 CAD per month.
However, some features—like email marketing, social media marketing, and custom forms—come with usage limits, requiring separate subscriptions ranging from $5 to $50 per month depending on the feature.
Who Should Choose Wix Over Squarespace?
Wix shines for businesses that anticipate needing more than just a basic website.
The built-in CRM and automation features make it particularly valuable for service businesses that need to manage client relationships.
The platform's all-in-one approach appeals to owners who prefer having their digital tools consolidated rather than managing multiple separate services.
Creative professionals often prefer Wix for its superior design flexibility, which allows for more unique layouts and interactive elements.
Service businesses benefit from Wix's booking and scheduling capabilities, while online retailers appreciate the robust e-commerce features that go beyond what Squarespace offers.
Final Thoughts on Wix
While we awarded Squarespace the top spot for its refined simplicity, Wix stands as what might be the best website creator for small businesses when comprehensive features and future growth potential are priorities.
Its combination of design freedom, business tools, and scalability make it an excellent choice for entrepreneurs willing to navigate its slightly steeper learning curve.
For businesses that may outgrow Squarespace's capabilities or need more integrated business solutions, Wix represents a powerful alternative that can potentially serve all digital needs in one platform.
The choice ultimately depends on whether you value Squarespace's elegant simplicity or Wix's expansive toolkit more for your specific business requirements.
Best Responsive Web Builder - Wix Studio
After carefully evaluating all options in the responsive website builder category, we've selected Wix Studio as the best platform to build a website for service business owners who need true responsive design capabilities.
Before the design community comes after us with pitchforks, let us explain why we chose Wix Studio over strong competitors like Webflow and Framer.
Webflow was an extremely close second - it's an exceptional platform with incredible design flexibility.
Framer also impressed us as an exciting newcomer that's quickly establishing itself as a serious contender.
However, Wix Studio, while new, is a substantial upgrade from the existing Wix platform. This new responsive web builder allows you to create a fully responsive website using the same feature-rich Wix ecosystem, which offers great opportunities for digital marketing.
Wix Studio's Features
As an all in one website builder and hosting solution, Wix Studio inherits all the powerful features of the Wix platform while adding professional-grade responsive design tools.
This means you get:
The same intuitive Wix interface (but supercharged)
Access to Wix's extensive app market
Built-in business tools (CRM, automation, etc.)
Robust e-commerce capabilities
Comprehensive marketing features
Advanced Responsive Design Tools
Wix Studio solves the biggest limitation of classic Wix by providing true responsive design controls:
Custom breakpoints for precise device targeting
Pixel-perfect positioning controls
Advanced layout options (CSS Grid, Flexbox)
Visual sitemap for easy navigation planning
No-code animation capabilities
Professional mega menu functionality
Wix Studio's Limitations
While we're bullish on Wix Studio's potential, there are some significant caveats:
Performance Issues
The editor can be unstable, with frequent crashes during design work. The builder can crash or freeze during front-end work, though the backend remains stable.
While backend operations remain stable, the front-end editing experience needs improvement.
Lack of Migration from Wix to Wix Studio
There's no direct upgrade path from classic Wix - sites must be rebuilt from scratch. This makes it less ideal for recent Wix site owners.
WIX Studio uses a different infrastructure, meaning existing Wix sites must be rebuilt.
Learning Curve
The platform combines Wix's feature richness with responsive design complexity, creating a steeper learning curve than classic Wix.
Wix Studio does things its own way, which takes time to learn compared to traditional drag-and-drop editors.
That said, as Wix Studio improves its features and resolves performance issues, it will become an even stronger choice for businesses.
Pricing
WIX Studio pricing is competitive:
Starting Plan
$17 CAD/month ($204 per year)
Standard Plan (for e-commerce)
$25 CAD/month ($300 per year)
The pricing includes a free domain for a year and web hosting, making it a great value.
However, some features like social media marketing, email marketing, and CMS expansions require additional subscriptions once limits are exceeded.
If you already love WIX, you’ll love WIX Studio, as it’s a necessary upgrade for modern, responsive websites.
Who Should Use WIX Studio?
This platform shines as the best site to make a website for:
Small to medium businesses needing responsive websites
Agencies building client websites
E-commerce stores requiring responsive design
Businesses transitioning from classic WIX
Designers who want control without full coding
Final Thoughts on WIX Studio
WIX Studio represents a significant leap forward for the WIX platform, finally delivering the responsive design capabilities professionals have demanded.
While it's not perfect (particularly regarding performance), its combination of WIX's business tools with true responsive controls makes it our top choice for most business owners looking to build future-proof websites.
For those who prefer alternatives, our runner-up Webflow remains an excellent choice for design purists, while Framer shows tremendous promise as an innovative newcomer. But for most business use cases, WIX Studio's balanced approach earns it the top spot.
2nd Place Winner - Webflow
When evaluating the best website builders for responsive design, Webflow stands out as the original and most powerful option for professional creators.
This platform has earned its reputation as the best website maker for designers who demand pixel-perfect control without sacrificing responsive capabilities.
While we awarded WIX Studio the top spot for its balance of power and accessibility, Webflow remains the gold standard for design purity and technical flexibility.
Webflow Features
What sets Webflow apart in the crowded website builder market is its unique combination of visual design tools and code-level precision:
True visual CSS control without writing code
Advanced layout systems (Flexbox, CSS Grid)
Comprehensive animation and interaction tools
Pixel-perfect responsive breakpoints
Figma to Webflow integration for seamless design translation
Developer-Friendly Features
Clean, semantic code output
Full HTML/CSS/JavaScript access
Custom code injection points
API and third-party service integrations
Webflow Limitations
While Webflow stands among the best website builders for professionals, its power comes with complexity.
Webflow's sophistication comes with significant complexity, presenting a formidable challenge for beginners.
The platform assumes familiarity with CSS principles and the box model, offering minimal hand-holding through the design process.
This learning curve makes Webflow less suitable for casual users but provides immense value for professionals willing to invest the time to master its capabilities.
Webflow Pricing
Webflow's pricing structure is unique:
Basic Plan: $14/month ($168 per year)
Up to 150 pages, but no CMS.
CMS Plan: $23/month ($276 per year)
Includes CMS with 2,000 dynamic pages, but only 150 regular pages.
E-commerce Plan: $29/month ($348 per year)
Starts at $29/month with separate pricing from regular plans.
Who Should Choose Webflow Over WIX Studio?
Webflow excels for design agencies, professional creators, and businesses with specific technical requirements that demand absolute design control.
Its clean code output and performance optimization make it ideal for projects where every pixel matters.
However, for most small businesses without dedicated design resources, WIX Studio's more balanced approach typically proves more practical and cost-effective.
Final Thoughts on Webflow
While not our overall winner, Webflow remains the gold standard for design purity among responsive website builders.
Its unparalleled creative freedom and technical precision justify its position as the preferred choice for design professionals, even as more accessible options like WIX Studio gain popularity among mainstream business users.
If you need full design flexibility, Webflow is one of the best website makers out there. But if you prefer a more beginner-friendly experience, WIX Studio might be the better choice.
3rd Place Winner - Elementor
Elementor earns its place as our third-place winner among responsive website builders, despite technically being a WordPress plugin rather than a standalone platform.
This distinction is important - Elementor transforms WordPress's notoriously challenging native editor into what could be considered an easy business website builder, making it worthy of inclusion in our rankings.
Elementor Features
As one of the best rated website builders for WordPress, Elementor provides:
Core Responsive Features
Visual breakpoint customization
Device-specific editing modes
Responsive margin and padding controls
Flexible section and column structures
Advanced Customization Options
Global style management for headers/footers
Custom CSS implementation
JavaScript integration capabilities
WooCommerce compatibility
Third-party app integrations
Pricing
Elementor offers competitive pricing, starting at $11 CAD per month. Keep in mind that this is for the Elementor plug-in itself; if you have a WordPress site, you'll likely incur additional costs for hosting and other features.
Who Should Choose Elementor?
Elementor is one of the best-rated website builders for those looking to enhance their WordPress experience. Its user-friendly interface and robust features make it an easy business website builder, allowing you to create a professional online presence without extensive coding knowledge.
Idea user cases for Elementor include:
Existing WordPress users seeking better design control
Businesses needing WordPress's CMS power
Sites requiring WooCommerce integration
Developers building client sites on WordPress
Content-heavy websites with blogging needs
Final Thoughts
While not a standalone solution, Elementor transforms WordPress into a legitimate contender among easy business website builder options.
Its responsive design tools and visual interface solve WordPress's most significant usability challenges while preserving the platform's strengths.
For businesses already committed to WordPress or needing its specific capabilities, Elementor provides the most polished design experience available.
Best Developer-Friendly Web Builder - WordPress
When it comes to the best web builder for developers and technically-inclined users, WordPress stands in a league of its own.
This open-source platform offers unparalleled flexibility, making it the best site to build a website for projects requiring complete creative and technical control.
Unlike drag-and-drop builders that have several restrictions, WordPress offers zero restrictions. No, seriously—it's as open as you want to make it, which is awesome for web developers but not always ideal for business owners or marketers seeking simple solutions.
This doesn’t mean that WordPress can only be used by professional web developers. It’s commonly utilized for many business sites and, in our opinion, often serves as the best site to build a website for your business.
However, WordPress can also be daunting due to its complexity and steep learning curve, which may not appeal to beginners.
WordPress Features
WordPress shines as the best company to create a website for long-term growth because:
Content Management Superiority
Handles thousands of pages effortlessly
Ideal for content-heavy sites and blogs
Efficient media management at scale
No platform-imposed restrictions
Handles high traffic volumes when properly configured
Complete Code Access
Full HTML/CSS/JavaScript control
Theme and plugin editing capabilities
Custom post type creation
API development options
Technical Flexibility
Choice of any hosting provider
Database access and optimization
Server configuration control
Advanced caching implementations
The Power of WordPress Plugins
One of the standout features of WordPress is its diverse selection of plug-ins.
Think of these as apps you can download to add more functionality to your site. While every web builder has apps and plug-ins, WordPress has the largest selection, perfect for tailored, customized needs.
Plug-ins are the lifeline of WordPress, allowing you to download for almost anything. Want to build responsive websites? Download Elementor. Looking to sell online? Install WooCommerce.
Starting to notice a pattern?
Essentially, WordPress is basic and simple at its core, allowing you to customize it the way you want. If your website requires extensive functionality or custom plug-ins, you can easily integrate them, as many plug-ins are free to download.
Although some offer paid subscriptions, the free options work well for many users.
While web builders like Squarespace and Wix come with built-in features, WordPress requires you to download plug-ins first, many of which are locked behind a paywall.
WordPress Limitations
Now, let’s cover the downsides. WordPress is infamous for its learning curve and user-unfriendly interface.
We are not exaggerating when we say that anyone with experience building websites will share similar frustrations with WordPress, especially when trying to build even a simple site.
WordPress is one of those builders where it’s easier to navigate if you already know how to use it.
It heavily relies on plug-ins, which, compared to other web builders, have a suite of built-in features. If you’re just starting out and have no idea which plug-ins to download, you might want to reconsider opting for drag-and-drop builders.
Additionally, WordPress can be more challenging to maintain, especially if you have multiple plug-ins downloaded.
So, while WordPress is excellent for large websites or those needing custom functionality, it can be overwhelming for small to medium businesses or those looking for a straightforward site.
Pricing
WordPress offers some of the most affordable pricing, with plans starting at $5 CAD per month. This includes a custom domain free for a year, which is impressive.
However, WordPress does not provide hosting, so you will need a separate hosting provider. This is what differentiates WordPress from most web builders, as their pricing often includes web hosting.
However, this allows you to customize your web hosting and upgrade to better providers for faster site performance than if you stick to WIX or Squarespace.
This exemplifies the flexibility and customization WordPress offers; it truly is the best web builder for this purpose.
One downside to WordPress pricing is that the ability to install plug-ins is locked behind the Business plan, starting at $33 CAD per month. This plan doesn’t account for the fact that while most plug-ins are free to install, many have premium prices.
Who Should Choose WordPress?
Developers and technical teams
Content-heavy websites
Businesses with unique functionality needs
Projects requiring complete control
Organizations planning significant growth
Final Thoughts
WordPress rightfully earns its place as the best web builder for developers and ambitious projects.
Its complete customization capabilities and limitless scalability come at the cost of complexity and maintenance requirements. For businesses with technical resources or those planning substantial online growth, WordPress provides an unmatched foundation.
However, most small businesses will find simpler drag-and-drop builders better suit their immediate needs while offering comparable results with far less effort.
Overall, WordPress remains one of the best sites for making a website, especially for those who need scalability and customization.
If you're looking for the cheapest website builder that still provides significant potential for growth, WordPress is worth considering.
Best E-Commerce Builder - Shopify
When it comes to the best e-commerce website builder for small business, Shopify stands head and shoulders above the competition.
This dedicated e-commerce platform provides everything you need to make my own website to sell items successfully online.
Unlike general website builders with added shopping features, Shopify was designed specifically for selling from the ground up, making it the best website to start online store ventures.
Shopify's Features
What makes Shopify truly great is its comprehensive suite of features designed specifically for e-commerce. Shopify provides all the essential tools to run an online business. Key functionalities include:
Custom Product Pages
Create detailed product listings that showcase your items effectively.
Categories and Collections
Organize your products for easy navigation and better user experience.
Seamless Checkout Process
Streamlined checkout ensures a smooth transaction experience for customers.
Shipping Integration
Simplify logistics with built-in shipping options and easy management.
Extensive App Store
Like WordPress, Shopify offers a vast array of apps that allow you to tailor your online store to your unique needs, whether it’s inventory management, customer service, or marketing tools.
Shopify's Limitations
Despite its many strengths, there are some downsides to Shopify.
The ease of use can be mixed; while Shopify aims to provide a user-friendly experience, the base web builder may not meet everyone’s expectations, offering a rather simple approach.
To enhance your experience, you'll likely need to download specific apps, which can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Additionally, certain elements, such as changing site navigation or adding regular pages, can be frustrating for first-time users.
If you’re looking for a more intuitive and straightforward e-commerce platform, you might want to consider our second-place winner.
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, Shopify’s e-commerce plans start at $38 CAD per month. As with many e-commerce platforms, transaction fees apply, starting at 2.8% + $0.30 CAD per online transaction.
If you upgrade to the next plan, it’s $99 CAD per month with a reduced transaction rate of 2.6% + $0.30 CAD per online transaction.
To be honest, the base package is more than sufficient for most e-commerce sites, making Shopify a solid investment for anyone looking to make my own website to sell items effectively.
Final Thoughts
For anyone serious about selling online, Shopify remains the best e-commerce website builder for small businesses.
Its complete set of selling tools, reliable infrastructure, and extensive customization options through apps make it worth the investment.
While the interface has some learning curves, the trade-off is a platform that handles all the complex aspects of e-commerce so you can focus on growing your business.
For pure online stores, no other platform provides such a powerful yet manageable solution.
2nd Place Winner - Square Online
When considering the best e-commerce website builder for small business, Square Online emerges as an excellent alternative to more complex platforms, particularly for retailers already using Square's ecosystem.
This platform distinguishes itself by offering what might be the best website builder for small business online store operations that prioritize simplicity and real-world retail integration over advanced e-commerce features.
Square Online is basic when it comes to e-commerce, which is why it earned our 2nd place winner spot. It is much simpler than Shopify and only takes a couple of hours to set up an online store.
This makes it an ideal option for those looking to quickly establish an online presence without a lot of hassle.
Square Online is not just about speed; it’s also effective for small businesses that want to launch their online store immediately without overwhelming complexities.
Square Online Features
Square Online's greatest strength lies in its effortless synchronization with Square's point-of-sale system.
For brick-and-mortar businesses using Square POS, the platform automatically:
Syncs inventory in real-time between physical and online stores
Updates product availability across all sales channels instantly
Maintains consistent product information and pricing
Tracks sales and customer data across all touchpoints
This bi-directional integration eliminates the inventory management headaches that typically plague omnichannel retailers, making Square Online exceptionally efficient for businesses operating both physical and digital storefronts.
Square Online Limitations
While Square Online excels at simplicity, it does sacrifice some sophistication:
Feature Constraints
Basic product variants only
Limited customization options
Minimal marketing tools
Basic reporting capabilities
Template customization is limited
Fewer layout options than competitors
Who Should Choose Square Online?
Existing Square POS users
Brick-and-mortar stores going online
Businesses with simple product catalogs
Sellers needing quick setup
Retailers prioritizing in-person sales
Final Thoughts
Square Online represents an outstanding choice as the best website builder for small business online store operations that value simplicity and real-world retail integration above all else.
For businesses already invested in Square's ecosystem, the platform offers unparalleled convenience and synchronization that more powerful but complex solutions can't match.
While it lacks the depth of Shopify or WooCommerce, Square Online's straightforward approach makes it one of the most website builder easy to use options for getting products online quickly.
The free plan provides remarkable value, allowing businesses to test e-commerce with minimal risk before committing to paid features.
For the right type of business - particularly those blending physical and digital sales - Square Online can be the perfect balance of capability and simplicity.
Should You Build a Website Yourself or Get an Agency to Build Your Website?
The DIY Approach: Building Your Own Website
For entrepreneurs and small business owners considering the best platform to build a business website themselves, the DIY route offers several compelling advantages.
Using the best online website builder for small business platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify allows you to maintain complete creative control while keeping costs low.
Modern website builders have made it possible for anyone to create a professional-looking site without coding knowledge, offering intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces and pre-designed templates.
The best way to make website for small business owners who choose to build it themselves includes significant cost savings, as you eliminate professional design fees.
You'll also gain valuable digital skills that help you make quick updates and changes without relying on external help. Many business owners find the process educational, helping them better understand their own digital presence and marketing needs.
However, the DIY approach requires a substantial time investment to learn the platform and design principles. You'll need to handle all aspects including design, content creation, SEO setup, and ongoing maintenance.
While modern builders are user-friendly, creating a truly professional, high-converting website still demands design sensibility and strategic thinking that many beginners lack.
The Professional Approach: Hiring a Web Design Agency
For businesses seeking comprehensive websites with custom functionality and advanced growth features, partnering with a professional agency often proves to be the better long-term investment.
Agencies bring expertise in selecting the best platform to build a business website for your specific needs, whether that's a robust e-commerce solution, membership portal, or lead generation machine.
Professional designers understand how to leverage the best online website builder for small business platforms to their full potential, creating custom designs that stand out from template-based sites.
They implement advanced SEO strategies from day one, build conversion-optimized layouts, and integrate complex functionalities that most business owners couldn't implement alone. Perhaps most importantly, agencies save you countless hours that you can instead devote to running your business.
The best way to make website for small business growth often involves this professional approach because agencies can:
Create completely custom designs that reflect your unique brand
Implement advanced functionality and integrations
Optimize every element for conversions and SEO
Provide ongoing support and maintenance
Offer strategic guidance based on industry experience
If you're considering a new website for your business, trust Avansta, Canada's web design and digital marketing agency. We will create a modern, responsive website that includes everything you need to grow your online presence and feel confident in your digital strategy.
Ultimately, the best platform to build a business website depends on your specific needs, resources, and goals.
Many businesses find a middle ground - using an agency for initial setup and complex elements, then taking over day-to-day content updates themselves using the best online website builder for small business platforms.
This hybrid approach can provide professional results while maintaining some flexibility and cost control.
Conclusion
After exploring the top website builders available today, it's clear there's no one-size-fits-all solution for every business.
The best platform to build a business website depends entirely on your specific needs, technical comfort level, and growth ambitions.
Whether you choose the elegant simplicity of Squarespace, the powerful e-commerce tools of Shopify, or the complete customization of WordPress, each platform offers unique advantages for different types of businesses.
Remember that your website represents your digital storefront and often forms the first impression potential customers have of your brand. The best way to set up a website involves carefully considering both your immediate needs and future growth plans.
While drag-and-drop builders offer quick starts for beginners, responsive and developer-friendly platforms provide more room to scale as your business expands.
For those ready to begin their website-building journey, we invite you to learn how to build a website for your business with our complete step-by-step guide.
And if you're serious about establishing a powerful online presence quickly, download our free e-book, on how to build your business's online presence in just 90 days.
By choosing from the top website builders we've reviewed and implementing them effectively, you'll be well on your way to establishing an online presence that drives growth and connects with your ideal customers.
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